Small spaces are often tricky, and given how much gear goes into the kitchen, it's undoubtedly one of the most difficult areas to keep compact, functional, and stylish. Here's some inspiration to help you infuse your tiny kitchen with character and convenience.

Obviously the aesthetic possibilities of the kitchen can range just as widely as that of other rooms. Some prefer minimalism and open storage, while others opt for vibrant colors, taking the opportunity to make a bold statement in a small space. But what all small kitchen designs require is consideration, creativity, and careful editing. Many of the spaces above rely on verticality to extend their utility. Magnetic knife strips, storage rails, overhead pot racks, hooks, and high shelving help keep counter space clear, making the spaces more functional and more open. Dry goods and other necessities become points of visual interest when they are uniformly displayed in glass canisters or jars. Occasional appliances are artfully hidden until their use is required.

There's so much creativity at work in the Apartment Therapy community that it felt only right to give some attention to some of the small kitchens submitted by our readers for 2011's Small Cool Contest. If you want to check out the full submissions, here they are: